Why You Should Never Stop Exercising: My Recovery Journey
Maintaining a consistent exercise routine is crucial for overall health and well-being. After taking a few days off due to illness, I experienced firsthand how quickly the body can become stiff and uncomfortable when regular physical activity stops.
During my recent bout of sickness, I felt terrible – headaches, nasal congestion, and a stiff body that made even basic stretching painful. My legs, back, and even my toes were sore from the lack of movement. This experience reinforced an important lesson: our bodies are designed to move, and they protest when we don't use them.
The Struggle to Get Moving Again
Getting back to exercise after a break isn't easy. It requires mental fortitude and a willingness to push through initial discomfort. As I started jogging on my treadmill, I could feel my energy slowly returning, but it was challenging.
Just two days ago, I couldn't have sustained even five minutes of jogging. Yesterday was slightly better, and today I can feel my stamina improving. This rapid progression shows how quickly the body can respond when we resume physical activity.
Taking Control of Your Body
One of the most important aspects of maintaining fitness is learning to control your body rather than letting it control you. This applies to exercise as well as nutrition:
- Control your mouth – resist unnecessary snacking
- Control your belly – don't give in to every hunger pang
- Force your body to move even when it resists
It's much harder to lose weight than to gain it. The only way to succeed is to take charge and make conscious decisions about your health rather than giving in to momentary comfort.
Start Where You Are
You don't need to be a fitness professional to benefit from exercise. Start with what you can manage:
- If you can't lift 100 pounds, start with 10 or even 5
- If running is too difficult, begin with walking
- Gradually increase intensity as your body adapts
On my treadmill, I currently can handle speeds up to 7 (out of 12). In the past, I could manage 9 or even 10, but my current weight makes higher speeds unsafe. That's okay – I work within my current capabilities while aiming for improvement.
Health Enables Achievement
Good health is the foundation for all other achievements in life. When you're sick or physically limited, your goals become much harder to reach. This is why consistent exercise isn't optional but essential.
Even a short 20-minute workout like the one I completed today can make a significant difference in how you feel and function. The increase in energy, improved mood, and gradual return to normal capabilities are well worth the effort of pushing through initial discomfort.
By making exercise a non-negotiable part of your routine, you protect your ability to pursue all your other goals and dreams. Your health truly is your wealth.
